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Opinions in the Shorts: Vol. 400

Welcome to the 400th volume of Opinion in the Shorts (aka OITS). I published the first on November 25, 2008 – about 3 months after starting my little corner of the world. To celebrate the occasion, I’ve included a short self-perspective in each section.

Next milestone – Only 5 to go to post #2,200.

This section evolved into a potpourri of thoughts. Because it is more applicable and interest to wider readership, I moved this section so it can serve as a lighter opener.

The lengthy stretch of rain, storms, tornadoes, and record flooding in the central US has been devastating. For those who are able and willing to donate, I urge you to do so to the charity of your choice. Here’s a link to Charity Navigator a site rating organizations on performance, financial health, accountability, and transparency.

A few days ago, at least 18 tornadoes hit Ohio – the closest about 40 miles from me. Fortunately, the people we know in that area are OK, but others lost their homes or suffered repairable damage. FYI: Ohio typically averages 3 for the entire month of May.

After seeing images of a long line of people on the final ascent of Mount Everest, I said, “I don’t get it.”

Last week ended with a 3-day weekend for Memorial Day. The Sunday sermon by one of my pastors was one of the best I’ve ever heard about this holiday. For those interested (and having 18 minutes), click here.

I recently learned that my state (Ohio) is ranked #6 in most Bigfoot sightings. Stephen Colbert recently asked a very pertinent question – What is the plural of Bigfoot?

This blog initially focused on sports and politics – so this section was an extension of the initial roots. For a long time, this section opened OITS.

Emphasizing improving the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) was one of the reasons Democrats gained control of the House this past December. I’m still waiting, and failing to pass such a bill through the legit process (as opposed to force feeding) will work against Democrats in the 2020 election.

For the second time in a week, a House Republican blocked the passing of a disaster funding bill. One person having the ability to block a bill is one reason Congress has a low approval rating.

Bottom Line: Special Counsel Robert Mueller explained he was the fact finder, and Congress is the jury. In that light, while Democrats are foaming at the mouth aiming for political gain. Republicans are spineless, protectionists of their own kind. Then again, if the situation were reversed, the roles would be reversed. Members of both sides of the aisle march to their party-first mantra, followed by preserving their own seat. Contrary to popular opinion, “country” is no higher than third on their priority list.

Earlier this week the news reported President Trump contradicting the National Security Advisor. Hello – he not only frequently does this to his advisors and experts, he also frequently contradicts himself. No wonder he is “the greatest president since Abraham Lincoln.” (Jon Voight) … but a great American orator responds

I just watched a report on CBS citing three studies/organizations supporting what I about to state.To those citing the current tornado activity as proof of climate change, to those condemning President Trump for ignoring climate change, and to those blaming Obama for everything & anything, current research shows there is currently no link between increased tornadic activity and climate change. That doesn’t mean the existence of an undiscovered link or the absence of any link. The Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (an “independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization working to forge practical solutions to climate change”), states in their opening sentence on their page about tornadoes and climate change: The link between tornadoes and climate change is currently unclear.

Weekly Headlines from The Onion (combos welcome)

The Onion has had a place on this blog for a long time. Long-time readers probably remember The Onion’s Satire Bits – a midweek dose of satire that ran for 134 weeks. That’s where the combo challenge started.

Showerhead self-conscious about single jet that sprays sideways
Boss encourages employees to take short mental breakdowns for every hour of work
World populace actually fine with rich people dying on Mount Everest
Businessman mortified to discover he’s been wearing suit backwards all day
Lowe’s reveals new table saw with attached ice chest for storing cut-off fingers (Click for the image)
Struggling single mother seriously considering putting baby up for audition

Interesting Reads

I’m not sure when this section first appeared. However, early OITS editions occasionally contained linked articles. Over time, articles switched from politics and economics to a collection of wide-ranging topics.

I remember when 400 was a special number in the MLB when it came to home runs. That was pre-PED, of course. But OITS brings it back again, and thank you for that.

I am miffed at how one person can block a bill. It seems like there is a tornado in my neck of the woods every day, which is highly unusual to say the least. I never understood mountain climbing, but after reading about Everest . .I really don’t get it.

I’m glad the tornados did not affect you directly, Frank. We had tornado watches on Tuesday and Wednesday–with confirmed tornados north and west of here in Pennsylvania.
I understand the indecision about impeachment with the GOP senate unlikely to go along, but I’m leaning more towards it now as a message–or a least they should censure him. It sounded to me like Mueller was saying here is what I found, now Congress go do something with it.
Another fine Bonnie Raitt number!

Impeachment is a sticky wicket. Bottom line is that you have to have the votes, and the Dems today have it in the Senate – and not even close – which is why I been saying proceeding would cost Dems votes. Besides, we are now in year 3 of a term.

I just heard AG Barr say (I’m close) “Mueller would say one way or another (about obstruction), so we decided.” …. I heard Mueller say, “If we could have exonerated the President, we would have said it.”

I remember the tornado drills when I lived there. Xenia was still recovering from major destruction downtown while I was in high school. My college roommates house had been destroyed by one growing. They are quite the terrifying phenomena.

I agree that our politicians put self-preservation and power far ahead of country (aka citizens/constituents). No one person should be able to block a bill.

I just can’t imagine being caught up in a tornado. It must be horrendous. Congrats on your impressive numbers, Frank. Does The Onion follow you? 😅 I think the plural of Bigfoot would logically be Bigfoots.

Sylvia,
Fortunately (for me), I have not directly encountered a tornado … but close. In terms of the stats – thanks. You’ve been here a long time so you know I keep chugging along (for whatever reason). In terms of Bigfoot, not Bigfeet?

Great edition, Frank. Thanks for the retrospective view and congratulations on your 400th. I must note that Congress and its leadership have been very consistent throughout your OITS run. “Me, me, me above all else,” is the unofficial motto. Of course, even having a Congress is Obama’s fault.

John,
Thank you … and glad you enjoyed the retrospect for each section. Figured that was the least I could do. Not only has Congress been consistent during my 10+ year run here, they may have gotten worse! Did you know the run of floods and tornadoes (mainly to your north) are Obama’s fault?

Tara,
Thanks for the congrats as I love milestones … but isn’t BIG woot also a possibility? And of course I answered your opposition to Bigfeet? Thanks for sharing headline that got you took personally. 😉

Congratulations on your impressive stats. Clearly your observations resonate with readers and confirm the notion that people really do want clever and thought-provoking posts. Continued success, Frank!

Debra,
Thank you for the kind words and for sticking with me for so long. Out of those 400, you have been there for many … probably even most! Weather has calmed down for us – but those in the plains states still have a long way to go to get to normalcy.